Since I've come back to STO I've been trying to "retrofit" my existing max level characters into current effective builds, and am having trouble coming up with a BoP build for my Science Captain. I don't really need a build that uses Science stuff, hell if I could respect my BoP captain as a Tac I would. I tried using builds on STO Academy that were made for Tactical captains but I don't feel very effective at all. I'm not sure if it is because I am not playing to my strength, just came across a bad build, or am just a bad BoP pilot. Would anyone mind helping me come up with a build that is currently effective in PvE and plays to a Science Captain's strengths?

I would eventually like to get a fleet version of a BoP (not sure which one) but currently have to use the Hegh'ta because my fleet does not have a Tier 3 shipyard.

The majority of PvE out there is not suited to the hit and run tactics that BoPs rely on. I'd recommend getting a fleet raptor instead, particularly if you're running that sort of layout, as many raptors sport very similar layout.

You'd gain both increased survivability and firepower by going with a raptor.

Have to agree here. BoP, with sci capt, is not suited for sustained DPS and is extremely vulnerable, most especially in elite STFs. As a Tac, I rely on alpha strikes and hit-and-run using cloak but it can be frustrating at times. I also specced for burst dps.

When I fly my defiant it is like night and day and i enjoy myself a lot more. Maybe you can try a raptor as tom recommend.

Used it for a while, had a lot of fun, and now that my Klingon fleet has a T3 shipyard I've been seriously debating getting it out again for some Fleet Ning'tao action. Cmdr and Lt sci, Ltcmdr Tac, LtCmdr eng. With damage control doffs you can have EPTS and EPTA up pretty much all the time, and then you add in a full Borg set and its more durable than a BoP has any right to be. Yeah still not as rugged as a Gorn sci ship, but brings a lot more firepower and maneuverability in trade. And most importantly you're flying a proper Klingon ship!

Simply put, BoPs can't really match full-fledged escorts when it comes to dishing out raw DPS against the PvE opponents, especially in end-game missions. For that, you're definitely better off with a raptor or destroyer.

However, one thing the BoP does rather well is mixing 'decent' attack power with crowd control. You could look into something along those lines.

Hmmm.. I see.. that is unfortunate, though understandable. Well I've wanted to PvP, just been holding off until they have something more meaningful/large scale than arena combat. Could I tailor a Sci captain BoP to PvP?

Oh yes, science BoPs are definitely still valid in PvP. That's assuming you're gonna run a science-y build, though. In terms of DPS, the best BoPs can try to do is hit-and-run harassing attacks that deliver lots of damage really quickly. It's difficult to stay in the fight for extended periods of time. For that, it's best to just stick with a tactical career officer.

If you're interested in running a disable/slowdown build, though, B'rel retrofits are very good at that. You can time subnukes to really screw with people tanking attackers, sensor scan is a great debuff, and you can still kick out damage in the form of firing projectiles to bleed HP off the enemy (transphasics, plasma, and chronitons work best here).

BoPs are still relevant, but you really gotta be careful when taking fire. That's the biggest weakness of BoPs. . their squishiness.